the dearest interest the heart can know in early and unmarried life.
The worst of all their troubles, as a present evil, was an interdict to any communication "with the people over the way;" and for so long a time had they looked to those good friends for some pleasures and many consolations—so possible was it that a single word of theirs might have relieved the gloom which hung over them, that the sight of Mr. Palmer would have been almost as dear to their eyes as either of those graceful youths on whose high brows "the hyacinthine curls hung clustering." Nor was the desire unreturned for many a regretful look was hourly cast towards that enchanted castle, which, if not environed by a moat, was certainly defended by a warder (perhaps a she-dragon) of no common resolution and abilities, and who became a positive prisoner herself to become the jailer of others.
Louisa and her husband had repeatedly called, of course; and Helen had seen them twice for a few minutes only, when she appeared so distrait, that Charles could not forbear to press Lady Anne to permit her to return with them "for a little change of air;" but he was informed "that, as it was time for her usual trip to Brighton, better air than the city environs could offer would soon be obtained." The second time this was mentioned, and Georgiana's company also requested, the young couple were gravely informed, that "the young ladies' conduct had been of late by no means respectful or amiable; and it could not be sup-
